From a satsang with Pt. Umadutt Maharaj, Spiritual Leader, SWAHA Bhakti Jyoti Mandali
As the year draws to a close, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita—a scripture that transcends time, culture and circumstance, offering eternal guidance for navigating life’s challenges. Revealed over 5,000 years ago by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the Gita lights the path to self-realisation, duty and righteousness.
In the first chapter, Arjuna, overcome by despair at the prospect of battling his kin, is unable to fulfil his duty. This moment of dejection—known as Vishada Yoga—sets the stage for Shree Krishna to impart teachings that transform Arjuna’s despair into clarity and resolve. The Gita teaches us to cultivate focused, one-pointed states of mind (ekaagra, niruddha), guiding us to act wisely and purposefully in all circumstances.
The Bhagavad Gita: A Union with the Divine
The word yoga in the Gita signifies union—specifically, the union of the self with the Divine. Across its 18 chapters, the Gita presents diverse paths to achieve this union:
- The yoga of knowledge (Jnana Yoga)
- The yoga of action (Karma Yoga)
- The yoga of devotion (Bhakti Yoga)
- The yoga of self-control and discipline, among others.
The Bhagavad Gita is a comprehensive manual on the art of living, containing profound philosophical insights and practical guidance on controlling the senses, refining the intellect (buddhi), and aligning one’s actions with a higher purpose.
Who Should Read the Bhagavad Gita?
The Gita’s teachings are universal, making it relevant for all individuals, in every stage in life. Its wisdom benefits a wide array of seekers:
– The young: To learn how to live purposefully
– The elderly: To prepare for life’s final transition
– The ignorant: To gain wisdom
– The learned: To cultivate humility
– The rich: To practise compassion
– The weak: To find strength
– The troubled: To discover peace
– The doubting: To find assurance
– The sinner: To seek salvation
– The spiritual aspirant: To achieve discipline and liberation (moksha).
Eternal Benefits of the Bhagavad Gita
The Gita is not merely a scripture; it is a transformative experience. Those who study, recite or teach the Gita elevate not only themselves but also others. As Lord Krishna states in Chapter 6, Verse 5, “One must elevate oneself by one’s own efforts, for the self is one’s friend and also one’s enemy.”
By engaging with the scripture, one can:
– Control the senses and achieve mental clarity.
– Develop resilience against life’s trials and tribulations.
– Discover the true purpose of life and one’s relationship with the Divine.
– Attain inner peace and liberation.
A Guide for Life
The metaphor of the chariot in the Gita is profoundly instructive. Arjuna represents the individual soul (jivatma); Shree Krishna embodies the enlightened intellect; the reins signify the mind and the horses represent the senses. Just as Shree Krishna steers Arjuna’s chariot, the Gita teaches us to guide our senses and mind with wisdom to navigate the complexities of life.
The Seven Core Philosophies of the Gita
The Gita encapsulates seven key teachings that provide a roadmap for spiritual and practical living:
- Understand the impermanence of the body: Appreciate the gift of life without attachment to the physical form.
- Realise your true self: Explore your divine nature and purpose.
Leave a Reply